Thrills as Ninzo monarch mounts saddle

Recently, the people of Ninzo in Southern Kaduna gathered in large numbers as Governor Nasir el-Rufa’i installed a new traditional ruler for the chiefdom. It was also a great opportunity to showcase their rich culture and tradition.

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At the presentation of staff of office to the 15th Uchu Ninzo, Alhaji Umar Musa, in Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State by Governor Nasir el-Rufa’i, spectators were thrilled by the dancing steps of the Ninzo cultural troupe. clad in hyena and tiger skin costumes, assorted beads, waiving well-knitted animal tails, with calculated movements, the dancers twisted their bodies, swirling their hands in the air as they showcased their talents. Fearful-looking masquerades also performed calculated acrobatic dances. These performers wearing glittering costumes also danced to a resounding and thunderous applause from the highly thrilled guests. Other dancers and artistes also performed to add colour to the event, just as many exciting cultural entertainments took place to showcase the rich culture and tradition of the people.

Masquerades performing at the event

Various speakers used the opportunity to preach the need for peaceful coexistence through dialogue, as well as why youth restiveness among Ninzo people should stop. The event attracted people from all walks of life, including prominent sons and daughters of Ninzo at home and in the diaspora.
The newly installed traditional ruler was advised to give everbody in his chiefdom a sense of belonging in order to carry them along. He was also charged to exhibit transparent leadership qualities in the course of his duties.
Governor El-Rufa’i said the state government was determined to ensure that traditional institutions reflected their true nature and responsibilities. He said there was the need for traditional rulers to carry all their subjects along in all fields of human endeavour, irrespective of tribe and religion, as this would entrench unity and peaceful existence, which are the guiding principle for development.
He challenged the 15th Uchu Ninzo to rule with the leadership qualities of his predecessors and promote mutual trust and understanding among his subjects. The governor reiterated that this would create an enabling environment for meaningful development in all parts of the state.
Describing traditional rulers as partners in peace building, Governor El-Rufa’i vowed to protect the institution, stressing that all hands must be on deck to preserve it.

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A group of dancers waiting to entertain guests

Responding, the new Uchu Ninzo expressed appreciation to the state government and his subjects for considering him worthy to occupy the royal throne. He pledged to justify the confidence reposed on him by cultivating the spirit of togetherness and communal life aimed at attracting investment. He promised to tap the tourism potentials in the chiefdom and harness the abundant mineral deposits therein.
While soliciting for support and cooperation from the people, the monarch promised to inculcate the spirit of love, peace and justice for the chiefdom to attain greater heights in socio-economic development in all ramifications.